Ja je ljubim ona podriguje
Djordje Balasevic
Unrequited Love and the Absurdity of Life
Djordje Balasevic's song "Ja je ljubim ona podriguje" is a poignant yet humorous exploration of unrequited love and the absurdity of human emotions. The song's title, which translates to "I kiss her, she burps," sets the tone for a narrative that blends melancholy with a touch of dark comedy. The lyrics describe a night descending, a metaphor for the protagonist's sinking feelings, as he drowns his sorrows in drink. The repetitive ordering of drinks symbolizes his futile attempts to forget his unreciprocated love.
The chorus is particularly striking, as it juxtaposes the protagonist's deep affection with the woman's indifferent and even crude reactions. The line "Ja je ljubim, a ona podriguje" ("I kiss her, she burps") captures the essence of his unfulfilled longing and the stark contrast between his romantic idealization and her lack of interest. This disparity is further emphasized with the lines about her hiccuping while his heart breaks for her, highlighting the emotional chasm between them.
Balasevic's inclusion of various characters in the latter part of the song, from family members to neighbors and even the local postman, adds a layer of communal absurdity. It suggests that the protagonist's plight is not just a personal tragedy but a shared human experience, one that everyone can relate to in some way. The song's blend of humor and heartbreak, coupled with its vivid imagery and relatable themes, makes it a compelling commentary on the complexities of love and the often ridiculous nature of life itself.